Wilhelmsfeld is a state-certified climatic health resort in the hills of the southern Odenwald, between 260 and 533m above sea-level. The surrounding communities are Heidelberg, Schriesheim, Heiligkreuzsteinach, and Schönau.
History
Wilhelmsfeld was established in 1710, when Johann Wilhelm, prince-elector of the Electorate of the Palatinate, granted five farmers from the Steinach river valley the right to settle there. The settlement was named after the prince-elector, but it belonged to Heiligkreuzsteinach administratively. Wilhelmsfeld became independent in 1810, after the region was annexed by Baden.
Government
Municipal council
The municipal council includes 14 councilors excluding the mayor (Bürgermeister).
The coat of arms is based on a seal from 1818. The coat of arms was created by the General State Archive in 1911 on basis of the seal. The sickle and the handaxe represent agriculture and forestry, the most important industries in Wilhelmsfeld in the 19th century.
The flag is white and blue and was awarded by the Ministry of the State in 1956.
Culture and attractions
Teltschik Tower
The Teltschik Tower is a 41-meter-tall lookout tower, which stands on the mountain, Schriesheimer Kopf, at 530m above sea level. The tower was financed by a donation from the Teltschik family.
Notable natives
The doctor, poet, and Philippine national hero, José Rizal, spent an important part of his life in Wilhelmsfeld. He stayed several months in 1886 with the Protestant pastor Ullmer's family, while he practiced medicine at the university eye clinic in Heidelberg. He finished the last chapters of his novel Noli Me Tángere while living under the pastor.
